Back in the 1980s and 1990s, it was fairly easy to identify the vehicles favored by older drivers. Grandparents typically drove robust American sedans like the Ford LTD, Chevy Caprice, or Lincoln Town Car. However, today’s automotive landscape presents a more diverse array of popular cars across all age groups, according to a recent study by Insurify.
The Ford F-Series pickup stands out as the most beloved vehicle among Baby Boomers. Surprisingly, certain models have garnered widespread appeal across different generations. Examples include the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Corolla. Moreover, Chevrolet consistently secured high rankings among all age groups, particularly among Millennials and Gen X drivers.
For Gen X-ers, the Ford F-150 emerged as the top choice, alongside perennial favorites like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima. Noteworthy trends revealed by Insurify’s analysis suggest that Baby Boomers still prefer larger vehicles compared to younger generations. Trucks and SUVs dominated half of the top 10 models for Baby Boomers, whereas Millennials only included two trucks on their list, while Gen Z had none.
This shift in preferences could be attributed to the heightened environmental concerns and focus on fuel economy among younger generations. Mark Beneke, the owner of Westland Auto Sales in Fresno, Calif., emphasized that younger consumers prioritize fuel efficiency, while Baby Boomers prioritize reliability and comfort. Recent data from a 2023 Pew Research poll reflects this divide, with 85 percent of Americans aged 18-29 anticipating future sacrifices due to climate change, compared to only 61 percent of those aged 65 and older.